Nigeria Customs Strengthens Community Ties with Visits to Yoruba Monarchs

By Zainab Uzomah| Abuja

The Nigerian Customs Service has reinforced its engagement with traditional institutions in southwestern Nigeria, following courtesy visits by the Acting Customs Area Controller of the Oyo/Osun Command, Deputy Comptroller Wale Adewole, to three prominent Yoruba palaces on Monday.

DC Adewole visited the palaces of the Ooni of Ife, the Ogunsua of Modakeke, and the Ataoja of Osogbo, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen community collaboration and stakeholder engagement in the Service’s operations.

At the Ooni of Ife’s palace, DC Adewole described the institution as a symbol of Yoruba cultural heritage and called for support in combating smuggling, facilitating legitimate trade, andenhancing national economic security. The Ooni commended the Customs Service for its role in trade facilitation and border security and pledged continued cooperation.

In Modakeke, the Acting Controller praised the Ogunsua for his hospitality and highlighted the importance of community intelligence sharing in supporting Customs’ mandate. The Ogunsua welcomed the initiative and promised the backing of his people to aid the Command’s objectives.

Similarly, at the Ataoja of Osogbo’s palace, DC Adewole reiterated the Command’s commitment to deepening partnerships with host communities and traditional institutions. The Ataoja acknowledged the Service’s contribution to safeguarding Nigeria’s economy and assured ongoing support.

According to the Customs statement, the visits form part of the Oyo/Osun Area Command’s strategic plan to engage key stakeholders whose influence is vital for compliance with Customs laws and national security.

The Command remains focused on its core duties of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling operations, while fostering collaboration with communities and traditional leaders to enhance service delivery.